Psalms on Saturday ~ Psalm 23 Like You’ve Never Heard It Before

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I’ve read Psalm 23 a thousand times. It’s my “go to” chapter when conducting a memorial service, and a stalwart of my personal devotions when I’m stressed.  

This Psalm, written by King David 3000 years ago, has been known as the most popular chapter in the ancient Scriptures read by the Jews, and since the birth of the church, the most popular chapter in both Judaism and Christianity.

Wherever and whenever the words “the Lord is my shepherd” are heard, millions instantly recognize the source as Psalm 23.

So, when I saw the words in a YouTube® song with this ad: “What if Psalm 23 was a song — like you’ve never heard it before?”, I was intrigued and clicked on the link. And since then, I’ve been listening to it repeatedly.

This new version of the Psalm contains the original Psalm 23 words but adds lyrics that fast-forward its relevancy from 3000 years ago to what is current today. It makes me feel like I’ve never heard the song before — renewing a psalm I’ve read thousands of times.

Now you have a choice. Just click this link and listen — or read the lyrics first (below) and then come back and click the link. Whether you listen or read, note how the phrase “the Lord is my Shepherd” begins each chorus and adds new insight each time it’s repeated… 

I’ve walked roads that felt endless, where the pain was hard to hide, where the weight of all my failures pull me down from every side. But even in the shadows, when my hope was runnin’ thin, I felt the Shepherd’s footsteps come walk toward my sin. He didn’t ask me for perfection, didn’t tell me to be strong, He just picked me up in mercy and showed me I belong. 

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie in pastures green, He leads my trembling heart. Beside the quiet waters, restores my weary soul. Even in the darkest valley, I am never alone, for You are with me; Your rod and staff they bring me home.

There’s a table set before me in the presence of my fear. And the enemies that have broke me start to tremble when You’re near. You pour oil upon my wounds till the hurt begins to fade. And the cup I thought was empty overflows with endless grace. Surely goodness and Your mercy have been running after me. Through the storms I tried to outrun, through the nights I couldn’t breathe.

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie in pastures green, He leads my trembling heart. Beside the quiet waters, He restores my weary soul. Even in the darkest valley, I am never alone for You are with me. Your rod and staff, they bring me home.

All my life You’ve carried me even when I walked away. Goodness followed through my wandering. Mercy met me in my shame. And when this life is over, when I breathe my final sigh, Your hand will lift me gently to the house where I’ll abide.

The Lord is my Shepherd, forever at my side. He leads me through the shadows into everlasting light. Beside the quiet waters, He restores what life stole. And even in my final valley, You will never let me go. For You are with me. Yes, You are with me. My Shepherd. My Comfort. My Home. (Outlaw Gospel Blues)

I realize that my taste in music (and this song) may not have the same impact with you, but I pray it does. Hopefully you will have a more in-depth realization that the Lord is your Shepherd!